The Man Born Blind

In John chapter 9, Jesus heals a man born blind, provoking a journey from physical sight to spiritual insight: the healed man's willingness to answer questions, name Jesus as Lord, and persist before the authorities models a conversion of heart that moves from curiosity to courageous witness. The Church’s Second Scrutiny in the OCIA echoes this movement: catechumens are accompanied to examine the depths of their conscience, recognize sin, and strengthen faith so they can affirm belief more freely at baptism. John’s narrative highlights personal encounter with Christ as the source of new sight.  

John’s Gospel challenges our preconceived understanding of suffering and disability. Jesus appreciates that the blind man’s disability is an opportunity for us all to respond with the caritas of God’s love in our relationship with others. The blind man’s disability is a tool in God’s divine plan to reveal His grace in our lives; a lesson we can either learn or ignore.

The blind man does not initiate the encounter with Jesus and his disciples.  The blind man is simpy a prop, an innocent example used by the disciples to ask their question, and the story unfolds with amazing twists and turns... 

 "Jesus not only gave (the blind man) bodily light, but he also gave him the Light of Faith..... The question we need to respond to today is:  Are we still blinded by pride and prejudices of culture and habit. "

Deacon Ken & Marie Finn,"The Bread of Life Catholic Bible Study Cycle A".